Press Release

Medtronic Expands Top Cervical-Upper Thoracic System

(Thomson Reuters ONE via COMTEX) --MEMPHIS, TENN. - April 29, 2013- Medtronic, Inc. (NYSE: MDT) the world leader in spinal technology announced today the U.S. launch of several new product line additions to the VERTEX SELECT® Reconstruction System. The announcement was made at the 81st American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) Annual Scientific Meeting in New Orleans.

This compliment to the VERTEX SELECT® Reconstruction System adds an additional selection of various size implants including pre-cut/bent rods, tapered rods, and other connecting implant options. The VERTEX SELECT® Reconstruction System is used to treat DDD (neck pain of discogenic origin with degeneration of the disc confirmed by history and radiographic studies), spondylolisthesis, spinal stenosis, fracture, dislocation, failed previous fusion and/or tumors.

"We are excited to continue to expand surgeon's options when treating patients", said Doug King, senior vice president and president of Medtronic's Spinal business. "When you combine the implant options available in the VERTEX SELECT® Reconstruction System with the recently introduced CERVICAL FACETLIFTSM Indirect Decompression and Stabilization surgical technique, Medtronic can now offer surgeons a true innovative procedure to treat these patients," said King.

These new additions to the VERTEX SELECT® Reconstruction System will give surgeons more treatment options for performing posterior cervical-upper thoracic surgical procedures. Originally introduced in 2001, the VERTEX® System product line has more than 12 years of clinical experience.

The Spinal business, based in Memphis, Tenn., is the global leader in today's spine market and is committed to advancing the treatment of spinal conditions. The Spinal business collaborates with world-renowned surgeons, researchers and innovative partners to offer state-of-the-art products and technologies for neurological, orthopaedic and spinal conditions. Medtronic is committed to developing affordable, minimally invasive procedures that provide lifestyle friendly surgical therapies.

About Medtronic

Medtronic, Inc. (www.medtronic.com), headquartered in Minneapolis, is the global leader in medical technology - alleviating pain, restoring health, and extending life for millions of people around the world.

Any forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties such as those described in Medtronic's periodic reports on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results may differ materially from anticipated results.

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